Brogger & Co.

Christmas concert 2011

2011-12-16T19:44:00.001-08:00

More Michigan

2011-07-21T11:22:00.001-07:00

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Aaliyah and Family

2011-07-10T20:37:00.001-07:00

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Location:Susan's house

Busy days

2011-07-08T15:48:00.001-07:00

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Location:MI

Day 3: We've arrived!

2011-07-06T18:54:00.001-07:00

Still driving to Muskegon... Should be there in an hour! Can't wait!!!!

Mississippi River

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Location:Michigan

Day 2: PM

2011-07-05T20:29:00.001-07:00

Here's where we stayed tonight. Dan didn't sleep very well last night- we were three to a bed. So, tonight we went for a little more room. We hope to get a good nights rest and arrive in MI sometime tomorrow night. It's been an easy and enjoyable ride so far, but it'll be nice not to drive such long stretches for a while. The boys have been incredibly well behaved so far.

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Location:Lincoln, NE

Day 2: Into Nebraska

2011-07-05T20:02:00.001-07:00

Rain in Wyoming

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Road trip Day 1

2011-07-04T22:09:00.001-07:00

We left Sacramento around 12:00 and checked into our hotel in Salt Lake City, Utah by 10:30.
The boys are having a blast!!! We all are. This drive is our Great American Roadtrip and it was so cool to see all the fireworks light up the sky as we entered the Salt Lake valley on the 4th of July.

Even though it's 11pm, we are putting on our swimsuits to enjoy the pool. After all, we're on vacation!

Entering Utah

Reno NV

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Location:Salt Lake City, Utah

Summer 2011

2011-06-22T13:48:00.001-07:00

Yesterday was the first day of summer...it was 102 degrees in Stockton CA. Yikes!!!

Needless to say, we headed to our neighborhood pool to cool off.

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Peter's end of the year awards

2011-06-06T16:05:00.001-07:00

I missed so many award ceremonies this year because of work. All the boys did really well in school and added many more awards and certificates to our super job wall. I did make it to Pete's third grade end of the year awards. As his teacher was introducing the award... I knew it was him!

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Valley days 2011

2011-05-26T16:20:00.001-07:00

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Eric's bday!!!

2011-05-20T20:16:00.001-07:00

My big boy turned 11 today! This year he asked me not to bring birthday treats into his class. That made me a little sad. I guess he's just growing up!
The rest of the birthday traditions stayed intact though: he let me tell him the story of the day he was born while sitting on my lap, we had dinner at his favorite restaurant and came home to open his gifts and have birthday cake.

He got a new CD player (we're so 1997), Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows, Billy Joel's Greatest Hits, Jukebox Favorites from the Fifties and a Slip and Slide.

I tried to take a picture of us together but I think he had had enough and sabotaged the whole thing. Here's what we got, me and my big baby!

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Location:Eric's bday!!!

Tour of Blue Fox Way

2011-05-14T17:50:00.001-07:00

Tomorrow thousands of people will head to Lake Tahoe to watch stage one of the Tour of California bike race. Today Dan and I watched our little cyclists get into the spirit of it!

These are new bikes purchased in part with Christmas money from Grandma Mari. Thanks for the cash! The boys are loving the way they chose to spend it!

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Open House 2011

2011-05-11T19:53:00.000-07:00

Today was open house at school. The boys loved taking us around the classroom and showing off their work. It was nice to see what they've been busy with all year. This school year has flown by! Only 2 more weeks of left!!!

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Happy Easter!!!

2011-04-24T08:54:00.001-07:00

This photos couldnt be in a more random order.

Easter was great! We tie dyed some eggs, hid chocolate filled ones, decorated Easter cookies and had fun together. It was a really nice day.

Dan took the boys to church Sunday morning. We had a kids hunt and had a True Meaning of Easter celebration on Saturday with our Primary group. We had a good turn out and enjoyed ourselves.

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Sonny Joe visits!!!!

2011-04-05T13:33:00.001-07:00

Sonny came to visit for spring break and we are so happy to have him here!

Yesterday we went to Sacramento for an advanced screening of Born To Be Wild 3D at the IMAX. It was amazing!!!! We all loved it! It is definitely worth watching. Sam and Ben kept trying to reach for the orangutans and elephants! It really is a great film. Two thumbs up from all my film critics. After that we went for a walk in Capitol Park.

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twin baby boys have a conversation - OFFICIAL VIDEO

2011-04-03T10:58:00.000-07:00

I am in love with these little boys! The protruding bellies, the passion and inflection in their babble, the way they politely wait for the other one to finish... too adorable. If you haven't seen this yet, you must-- it'll make you laugh out loud!

Science Olympiad!!!!!

2011-04-02T14:31:00.001-07:00

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Preschool!

2011-03-30T14:58:00.001-07:00

I spent the afternoon with Baby Fox in preschool. Watch the video to see him in action!

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Ready, Set, Go!!!

2011-03-29T21:20:00.001-07:00

Tonight was Pinewood Derby!

Eric took home 3rd place and Peter was 4th place. It was a very exciting night.

I'm glad both of the boys placed... it would have also been okay if neither did. I just wouldn't want to deal with one bringing home a trophy and not the other.

Next year we'll have three little boys competing!

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Last Day of Spring Break

2011-03-26T14:50:00.001-07:00

I took my guys on a date night for the last day of spring break. We went to see Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Rodrick Rules and went out to 5 guys.
The movie was hilarious! The boys loved it. I didn't appreciate the "Prom" movie trailer we had to sit through...a teenager movie for tweens that looks totally lame.

The boys are so stinking cute! Don't ya think?

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Sam's video

2011-03-25T11:17:00.001-07:00

After seeing that Peter made a weather video yesterday, Sam decided to also make a video. He brought me my phone and asked me to post it. Lol! Here is sam's video:

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Peter the meteorologist

2011-03-24T15:37:00.001-07:00

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Pea soup, anyone?

2011-03-23T15:02:00.001-07:00

Today we went to Monterey county. I went to interview with a news station about a possible reporter/anchor position. It went really well and I'm glad to know that I'm blessed with many opportunities. It's not something that's going to happen right away but it's very encouraging to know that it will.

Anyhow, it's a 21/2 hour drive. On the way back we stopped off for lunch at a place famous for it's pea soup. The soup was yummy but Dan liked it best because it was very Dutch. There's even a big sign that says "velkommen".

We thought Grandma Mari would enjoy a picture next to the windmill. :)

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Bowling!!!

2011-03-21T16:18:00.001-07:00

Spring break continues and so does the fun! The boys are having a great time bowling.

I have never been much of a bowler, in fact I stink. The boys must get their skills from the Brogger side of the family!

Dan says it was fun to have a grandpa who owned a bowling alley... I bet these guys would have loved that.

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Pizza Rock

2011-03-19T19:10:00.001-07:00

Today my mom took the boys to Pizza Rock in Sacramento for their "little chef" program. They made reservations three weeks ago because it's a popular thing to do; probably more so during spring break. Ben was super geeked since he wants to be a chef when he grows up.

Anyhow, I met them after work and snacked on their creations. These pics were forwarded from my moms phone. There are more so I'll update when she sends them over. Btw, i love this blogging app....posting this while at the gym. ;)

More stan state pics

2011-03-17T21:08:00.001-07:00

Today my mom and I took the boys to Stan state for the day. If anyone of them goes there, they would be the third generation! They had fun checking out the campus and watching "all the college people" running around. Eric says he'd like to play baseball there so we bought him a shirt. Peter is narrating the video until Eric "ruins" it for him.

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Spring vacation

2011-03-17T20:44:00.001-07:00

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Mahhch hurteenth

2011-03-14T20:15:00.001-07:00

Saturday was a great day!!! Our Sammy is now 5. We celebrated with a garden themed bug party. My pics are so random and I wish I would have taken better ones. Anyhow, here is some of the fun!

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Sam's Happy Birthday

2011-03-12T19:08:00.001-08:00

Sam ham turns 5!

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Merry Christmas From Us!

2010-12-14T21:17:00.000-08:00

A friend was kind enough to come over and take our annual Christmas pictures! I know I'm completely biased, but I think I have the loveliest boys ever! Merry Christmas!!!

Brogger Folks Fall 2010

2010-12-13T19:07:00.000-08:00

Hello all! It's been a fun filled fall for us. All four of the monkeys played soccer this season. That was, in one word, intense.

Juggling 4 little boys in soccer was interesting. :)
Glad it's over.

My grandfather has been visiting from Costa Rica and we are thrilled to have him. He's a real life Go, Diego, Go! and has been regaling the boys with his tales of living among toucans, monkeys and jaguars in the rain forests of Costa Rica. Needless to say, they hang on his every word.

All the little ones are doing well. Peter is taking part in Science Olympiad this year. I am the "Propeller Projection" coach. Yeah- we'll see how that goes. Science has never been my strong suit but plowing ahead through life with my monkeys, I am always learning something new.

Piano lessons begin in January for Eric and Peter. Eric hasn't studied piano in a year so we shall see what he remembers...there are just so many things we can do at one time.

Eric, Peter, Ben and Sam Ham continue to grow into kind and brilliant people. They are all so lovely.

Halloween Fun

2010-10-30T08:43:00.000-07:00

Halloween 2010 has been a blast so far.

This year we have 2 mummies, 1 zombie/ghost/thing and 1 dashing vampire.

:)

Fall is here!

2010-10-19T23:07:00.000-07:00

It finally feels like fall in Stockton! Life is great, we are happy. Pictures to come. :)

Yellow Roses

2010-05-04T08:45:00.003-07:00

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The Pinks

2010-05-04T08:45:00.001-07:00

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2010-05-04T08:44:00.005-07:00

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So pretty!

2010-05-04T08:44:00.003-07:00

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Garden in bloom!

2010-05-04T08:44:00.001-07:00

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Sunday

2010-05-02T16:24:00.001-07:00

The boys before church on Sunday, before they come out covered in crumbs from their snacks, with their shirts untucked and their ties in their pockets!

My lovelies!

2010-05-02T16:23:00.003-07:00

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My sunshines

2010-05-02T16:23:00.001-07:00

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Hope it is. Almost one million dollars for research for childrens bladder issues.

2010-04-29T16:04:00.001-07:00

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With Leeza Gibbons, who is a CIRM board member

2010-04-29T16:01:00.001-07:00

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We did it! We got the funding!!!!! More details to follow.

2010-04-29T11:41:00.001-07:00

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Yikes!

2010-04-28T19:50:00.001-07:00

OMGosh! This shuttle driver is a maniac!!! I think I'm going to be sick...

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Who would have thought it was pouring today?

2010-04-28T19:22:00.001-07:00

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Time to go!

2010-04-28T18:11:00.001-07:00

I am getting ready to board a flight to Burbank. My experience loving someone with Spina Bifida allows me to do something pretty cool this week. I get to give a patient perspective regarding neurogenic bladder to people who have the power to unleash some serious dollars for research. It's about the word that keeps any family struggling with a diagnosis going: HOPE. Wish me luck and say a little prayer, please.

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Untitled

2010-04-28T16:55:00.001-07:00

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Mmm!

2010-04-24T18:07:00.001-07:00

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@asparafest the boys LOVED Tyler!

2010-04-24T17:02:00.001-07:00

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@asparafest the boys LOVED Tyler!

2010-04-24T16:57:00.001-07:00

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Something new

2010-04-20T22:47:00.001-07:00

Trying to figure out Posterous...

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With apologies, I apologize.

2010-04-20T21:00:00.001-07:00

Work is great. It is intense and though it is the same job every time I walk through the door, no two minutes are the same. I love that about what I do.

Anyhow, because of work and real life, I have found that I have spent very little time online over the past year and a half. I check email on my phone about 4 times a day and that’s about it. I really only log on to Facebook and Twitter for story tips and ideas. On the occasion that I do spend time perusing for the sake of perusing, I realize that I am really missing out. While I can generally do without people posting what they had for lunch, I notice that these social mediums can make people so far away feel so close.

As much as I enjoy reading your blogs and posts, I imagine that you, dear reader, probably miss my posts. There really are only a handful of folks that check this for updates and I guess in my thinking that the mundaneness of my life is just that, I have lapsed terribly. I apologize.

The truth is that the Brogger family has been extremely blessed. We continue to be showered with Heavenly Father’s good grace on a daily basis.

Eric is doing really well in school. I cannot believe it but he’s actually going to be 10 next month! 10!!!! Unbelievable, on so many levels. It feels like we just brought him home from the hospital yesterday. Not to mention I don’t feel a day older than 20. He is a brilliant 4th grader; bright, kind, athletic, funny and generally spectacular. He is looking forward to playing baseball very soon. We are expecting a call from the coach any day to advise what days practice will be. Here we go again…another season of sports :)

Peter is in 2nd grade this year and continues to blossom into a creative spirit. He loves acting, performing, and being the center of attention. He has had lead roles in productions lately. I am amazed at his talent for memorizing lines and his comedic timing. He def. has a flair for performance. He is well loved by everyone that knows him. His curiosity can be exhausting but he is so good natured that I can generally manage him.

My sweet Ben is in first grade. I call him Mr. 100% because he aces every spelling and math test he takes. Ben is a good friend to all. He tries his very best to be the best he can be. Ben epitomizes the Primary song, “I’m trying to be like Jesus.”In all that he does and says, Ben puts forth his very best efforts. He and Peter are BFF. I love that they are two peas in a pod and care about each other so much.

Sam is a frisky little firecracker. He refuses to wear anything that isn’t sports or super hero related. Target had a nice collection of Superhero shirts for a while. Once we bought all they had, Old Navy started carrying them. Of course, we had to buy every style in his size. 2 weeks ago in the GAP, he was thrilled to discover they too are into the superhero scene. He loves to jump and sing and dance to Justin Bieber songs. No, seriously, he has the entire choreography of “Baby, baby” down pat. It is too adorable. Sam is almost like Peter all over again…only friskier.

Dan bought me a new laptop for school this semester… I’m all set up with a one touch publishing system for blogging. So here’s to another shot.

This is a pic of me and Sam as I write this. We are watching “I love Lucy” and making funny faces with the webcam. Good night!

Happy Spring

2010-04-13T13:46:00.001-07:00

My four foxes are growing! They are all getting so big. Peter lost a tooth yesterday. He and Ben have been losing teeth almost weekly! Here are some recent pics because it’s been a while!

AAHHHHHHH!

2009-12-09T21:02:00.000-08:00

My last post was in July, yikes! We fell off the blogosphere.....again. :)

Seriously, I don't have a good excuse. New Year resolution: I will be a better blogger.

xoxoxo

Pictures!

2009-07-29T10:44:00.001-07:00

Okay so I remembered I could use use my iphone's firewire to get the pictures...yippeee! Ben has been WONDERFUL this morning; no headaches and very few complaints of dizziness so I am eager to update the dr.s on how he's doing....we might get to go home.

These pics are of the pre op visit on thursday. Sam was feeling really frisky and was a little impatient so I had to skip out on the appt and have an impromptu photo shoot with him in the hallway. Dan stayed in and discussed the procedure and then we went home.

The next day we were back in the hospital at 5 am for surgery.

The night before the surgery we had a little bon voyage party with my parents, my brothers, Omar and T.J. and some friends. Everyone wished him a speedy recovery and he even got some cool gifts to keep him company in hospital.

DS and Wii games!!!--Nothing could be sweeter to this 5 year old.

One last kiss before surgery!
And he's off! Notice the champion's face: he was ready to go. The surgery lasted 3 hours.
Waking up from surgery. His good pal Baby Jaguar (who was in the operating room this time and for the last year's ACE procedure) was there to bring him comfort.

Stinky guy thinks this is hilarious! He is such a stinky dude.

Ben's recovery

2009-07-29T07:54:00.001-07:00

We are at the UC Davis hospital going on day 6 as Ben recovers from a surgery to untether his spinal cord. He has had some minor complications so we are still here....today seems to be looking better. We are still here because he has been having headaches and dizziness which are signs of a possible cerebral spinal fluid leak.

At this point doctors are monitoring him, if the symptoms continue we will have an MRI or CT scan later today and then go from there. There is also the possiblity that the symptoms will go away and we'll be good to go home. The surgery itself went smoothly and he is not having any trouble with the wound. Overall, it hasn't been too bad. I would love to post pics but I don't think I packed the appropriate cord to get them onto the computer so those are on hold for now.

Thanks to all who have had Ben in prayer and in thought; we appreciate all the support!

Hello friends!

2009-06-26T10:19:00.000-07:00

So it's been a while... we have been moving, working, keeping 4 guys busy during summer and have not been too interested in blogging. But just so you know we're still here I thought I'd post something today. I will have to find the camera to post some summer pics before time flies away from me but in the mean time know that we are well and enjoying the days!

whew- that was a looong week!

2009-05-30T14:48:00.000-07:00

The first pics are of the end of the year field day celebration. I volunteered for the day and my station was called the "Gotta go relay." So cute! The kids had to grab a sponge out of a bucket of water, run with the sponge to the other side of the field then squeeze the water out of the sponge and into a small cup. The cups had a black line and whichever team to reach the black line first, won. Super funny to watch the kids, they loved this! Earlier in the day I had the three legged race. We were out there for almost 4 hours, thus the funky sun hat I am wearing. Never mind that.

On Friday Kindergarten had a mini field day, it was so much fun but especially awesome because I loved to watch Super Ben being a stud muffin...again, isn't he adorable? He is so speedy with those things; they so don't even slow him down. Even other parents commented on how awesome he is and what a great attitude he has. He really is a special child.

Look! He even won the race! Go, Ben, go!

And he can ride a tricycle like a champion too!

Plus, he is super foxy!!!

Just before the Kindergarten field day we had an awards ceremony to go to for the older boys outstanding achievements. They received Perfect Attendance again, Eric didn't miss a day of school this year while Peter missed one day for being sick in the beginning of the school year. I didn't get any pictures of Eric's award because I didn't make it (juggling 4 kids, one activity is bound to be impossible) which stinks because it was the All Achievement Award. He was honored for his work in Math, Science and Reading. So happy for his efforts! Too bad we don't have pictures to share. Pete earned the Writing Award. As soon as his teacher was introducing the award Dan and I looked at each other and knew it was for Pete. She said "a child with an impressive vocabulary, a great sense of humor and an incredible imagination." Yup, that's our Peter.

And just because they're getting so cute, I thought I'd share that our tadpoles are now froglets, well some of them, one is a frog, two still tadpoles. Pete loves them!

Maybe a little too much!

Aren't they sweet!

Thursday was kindergarten graduation. I didn't make it because I was on a field trip with Eric to Valley Days (you'll see that below) So Dan, my mom, dad, and brother Peter went to watch the big ceremony. I hear it was amazing, and I bet it was. Here is Ben with Mrs. Salley, it was her birthday so she was given balloons and Grandpa brought Ben his. (Dan dressed him, btw)

Here is Eric as a cute little pioneer child. Third grade went on a field trip to Valley days. I was in charge of the tin punching station- one word: EXHAUSTING. A hammer, a nail, a little piece of tin, the object? To create a design on the tin. Multiply that by too many third graders and you have a tired mom with a very sore arm.

It was a fun day though, and nice to spend time with my big boy.

Eric and his buddies.

After leaving the boys at school, Sam and I had to run over to a film festival with some of my friends. We were there for only a minute, just long enough to take some ribs for the road. Sam is so my child!

He was going to town on that poor rib!

Getting sleepy....but still hungry.....

And he's out!!

It was a long week.

Busy Brogger Days!

2009-05-26T14:20:00.000-07:00

Ben is so foxy! I know I say that often but he really is. Here he is in Kindergarten doing the Butterfly song. We are learning about life cycles. My mom and Mrs. Salley buy tadpoles, eggs, and insects and caterpillars every year for the classes to watch and learn from.

Because my boys are exposed to this every year with their grandma, Ben can pretty much write a book on the stuff. Like every little boy though, he never grows tired of the process. The best part is that my mom brings all the critters home on the weekends so the boys really enjoy this time of year.

I used to be grossed out by frogs but after doing this every year, I think tadpoles are so cute and love watching their little legs sprout. Am I crazy?

This is Mrs. Salley's Turtle, Myrtle.

This is the coolest thing to have in your class, eggs in incubators hatching into chicks. Aren't they the cutest little things?

Last week Eric turned 9! Holy cow, that is absolutely nuts---I cannot believe that this kid is 9. Anyhow, he got a hamster that he is in love with.

I don't think I'll ever be a rodent fan- kind of creepy if you ask me.

Later that night we had Scouts. We love to multi task around here, so we celebrated Eric's birthday with the Scouts having them assemble their own strawberry shortcakes (learning to make a dessert is a Scout lifeskill elective) After the boys left we gave Eric his gifts. All the boys loved the stuff.

Fishing & Fun

2009-05-18T21:43:00.000-07:00

This past Saturday Dan packed up the four foxes and went trout fishing. He is a very brave man! I had to work so I couldn't make it but made Dan take pictures for me. They had a great time and caught two fish they cooked up for dinner!

It was part of "Kids Catch a Smile Day" a really great event for families with a child with a disability. There were lots of activities to keep the boys entertained. One thing that Sam was not a fan of was the clown. Poor clown! He's the sweetest man ever (the Shriner's staple, that brings so many kids joy at clinic appointments) and felt so sad that Sam was horrified by him.

It was a very busy day for the boys because later we went to my friend Bliss's sons birthday party. Mikel turned three and had a great birthday at a super fun place. Needless to say everyone slept well that night!

Sam was terrified of all the decor and didn;t want to walk past the giant spongebob jumper to go to the restroom. I finally carried him over and he was so happy he thanked me with a kiss!

End of the school year fun!

2009-05-15T08:49:00.001-07:00

These first couple of pictures are of an award ceremony. I was chosen as an Outstanding Student in the Broadcasting department. Dan had to study for finals but my brothers and dad came along. Afterwards we went out for pizza. Later in the week we had Open House.

Open house was a busy night for us. With Ben in kindergarten, we had to race through three classrooms this year! It was a fun night and the boys loved showing off the things they've been working on.

Last night was the school Talent Show. Peter and Ben participated this year by singing "Take Me Out to the Ball Game". They were so adorable! Eric didn't want to do anything for the first time since Kindergarten, I guess he's just growing up!

The days of our lives...

2009-05-04T17:15:00.000-07:00

I am happy to report that I am doing better. Of course, we aren't looking forward to the upcoming surgery but I am much better with the idea of it. I know that God will continue to show mercy and grace to our family.

The first pictures are of an earth day picnic in kindergarten. Ben is so cute!

Now we move on to our Wednesday's....with the Scouts! Seriously, let me just say that this has become one of the highlights of my week. These guys are awesome! It is so much fun to get to know them and work on achieving something meaningful together. Obviously, this was a soccer game.

Here we are ready for a fun day of bowling. This day was a little tricky-- keeping an eye on a group of frisky, fiesty, boys in a crowded public place is quite a job! Although I must say I LOVE the beautiful diversity represented by our group.

The little Brogger boys love to tag along....

And this is so random (but fun) David Bromstad from HGTV was in Sac to promote a new line of environment friendly paints and dropped by the station to talk about it. He was really sweet.

Ben the Brave!

2009-05-01T08:01:00.000-07:00

Ben's class performed a circus that was just too adorable last week! He was the alligator wrestler, and the lion tamer!!! I could just gobble him up, he's so lovely. He had a great time of course and all the children did a super amazing job. Mrs. Salley is the greatest and we love her for the great opportunities she gives the kids. Always a blast in Kindergarten!

At Ben's last Shriner's visit we were told that he should have an MRI because he has some increasing balance problems and his toes curl more than they did before. Well to make a long story short, we went back for the results yesterday and Ben has tethered cord. This will require another surgery- spinal surgery. I am grateful for advanced medicine and blessings in our lives but at the same time I can't help but feel overwhelmed.

It's so easy to forget that there's anything "wrong". We are so used to our daily routine that the cathing and bowel management just get done; there never feels like there's an extra step. He's just our baby like the other guys are until we go to these appointments. Then we have to hear things that are obviously necessary to hear but nonetheless stink. I feel a million different things right now. Dr. Boggan says that surgery is necessary because when sensation is lost with tethered cord, it can never be recovered. How scary is that?!!! I hate this feeling.

Anyhow, surgery will probably take place in the next month, late May or early June. Please keep my lovely Ben in your prayers.

Easter 2009, and random ramblings

2009-04-14T10:27:00.000-07:00

These pictures of the Easter activity at church, it was really cute and well thought out. The boys enjoyed all the activities and it took the place of painting eggs at home this year.

We had such a great Easter day...Dan left church a little early to "secretly" put together the boys baskets. Of course, the boys knew what was up as soon as we got home but made a big deal for us anyway. They are kind like that. There was a little drama in the morning when I couldn't find Sam's vest (it's coral like Ben's shirt) and I turned their room inside out in the search. Finally I gave up and resolved to get rid of half their possessions to make room to walk through...I've yet to do that. On a happier note it was nice to go to church and be reminded of what is really important.

I am just finding it a little difficult to keep up with all there is to do at home, school, work, Cubscouts, etc. and keep the house presentable. Dan says we should look for someone to come and help around the house,to primarily do laundry, once a week, to keep our sanity. So we are looking for someone who is brave enough to walk into the boys' room and literally hunt for dirty clothes, wash them, scrub toilets used by little boys with rotten aim, can't be afraid of reptiles... oh and did I mention salary will be paid in Spongebob monopoly money? Any takers?? I remind myself that this semester is almost over.... and life will go on... just crazy days.

My boys are sooo lovely, unorganized though they may be, they are sweet and kind and help me keep my perspective. Here they are in their lovely Easter clothes looking adorable- minus Sam's coordinating vest. Someday I will find it and take the picture the way it was in my head....then again, maybe it's fine just the way it is.
;)

Snow day!

2009-03-18T21:20:00.000-07:00

Today Ben and I spent the day at Alpine Meadows at the the Disability Sports USA Adaptive Ski School. He had never skied before and I was so nervous about him being on regular skis. We thought he would do sit skiing but after he was looked over it was decided that it would be more beneficial for him to stand ski. Ben is such a champion that he took to skiing like a duck to water. Driving home he said this was the happiest day of his life. (He loves life so much though that this comment comes up at least once a week.) He grinned from ear to ear the entire time; it was a great confidence booster and so enjoyable. I think we'll go again next week. It is a FANTASTIC program there and I was very impressed by how professional, flexible and enthusiastic the staff was. We have been to other activities that should be equally as great and understanding because of the crowd they cater to but are anything but. This is something we will totally do again. He had two private instructors for the day, Shirley and Cheryl, they are the two in the pictures with him. Ben loved it and I loved watching him. His buddy Chance also went and Ben really enjoyed hanging out with him.

This is Ben & Chance, I love that Ben thinks Chance is the ultimate in cool. It's so good for him to have an older bud to look up to that can relate to the stuff Ben deals with. Ben is soooo looking forward to water skiing with him in the summer. Cool stuff!

Uncle Pete also came along to help me out, which is always nice. I told him he couldn't bring his snow board. He was so bummed and even more so when we found out he could have! Oh well maybe next time. We had a blast watching Ben anyhow.

BIG 3!

2009-03-17T21:22:00.000-07:00

This past Friday Samuel Joseph Brogger turned 3. We had a fun little Batman themed birthday party. He didn't want to go to Chuck E. Cheese as he is terrified of that place. He hates clowns, and other festivities associated with children's birthday parties. All he wanted was a cake, Batman stuff and chicken. In the end Sam was more than satisfied with his day as it also included a police costume to add to his vast array of dress up clothes!

The next day was Pinewood Derby. Dan and the boys had a great time. Great news is we won the sportsmanship award and our car got second place once, and third place twice. The boys were soooo excited to watch their car. Here is "Horsepower":

Spring cuties...

2009-03-08T13:43:00.000-07:00

We all took turns being sick last week but I'm glad to report everyone is back to life. I hadn't snapped any pics of the boys altogether in a couple of months so I decided to take some right after church today.

Hello again...

2009-03-02T07:40:00.000-08:00

I have not abandoned my blog, just lagging a little, okay a lot. This past week the big news was Blue & Gold dinner with the Scouts. I was called as Cubmaster in Jan. and when I read that among my duties and responsibilities was planning the B&G, I thought cool, no prob, that will be fun. Then I noticed it was in Feb. and I went into panic. All went well though-great attendance, tons of food, cute skits, and of course badges and recognition for these champion kids. Now we move onto preparing for Pinewood derby!!! I have never pretended to be a crafty or outdoorsy kind of gal. In fact, I would describe myself as the exact opposite; I enjoy running in a nice air conditioned gym. However, Scouting has awakened an interest I never knew I had. Plus, since Dan is Den leader it is a family affair and that works out really well. Pete, Ben and Sam love that they always tag along even though they are too young to be as Sam says, "a scub scwout." He sounds like Scooby Doo!

In other exciting Brogger news, Eric Daniel participated in this years science fair. He earned a ribbon and a spot in the S.J. County third grade competition. That was lots of fun and it was great to see him go through the process. He's hopeful his project will do well at the county level, so we will keep you posted.

Now, I will post something not so pleasant. Twenty years from now it will probably be hilarious but right now it stinks. Pete, who keep in mind is in 1st grade, is taking CA standardized tests right now. Teachers of course read very specific instructions and kids are expected to follow. One of those instructions is to stop at a certain section, in first grade, when you see the stop sign you should put your pencil down and wait for further instruction. Well, Peter looked ahead. No, this is not the bad part, not yet. This is where he just gets going. Well, his teacher noticed what he had done, called his attention to it and sent a note home to be signed by a parent. To make a long story short Peter returned the note signed DAN in scribbled first grade capital letters! Obviously, his teacher took one look at the signature and asked him about it, this is where he goes 3 for 3 in dumb choices: he says, "My dad's arm was hurting and the pen was shaking a lot because he couldn't hold it good" Really! This little kid thought he was going to get away with his nonsense! I am not sure what went wrong there but we have addressed the problem head on.

Ben and I are looking forward to an upcoming ski trip. We have signed him up for skiing therapy and he couldn't be more thrilled. He has a buddy named Chance who also has Spina bifida and is going on the trip so he is really excited about it. Chance is 8 and super cool, I think it's sooo good for Ben to have a friend who is a little older and someone that he can relate to as far as SB goes. We will post pics of the fun. In the summer, we will do water skiing!

Sam and I continue our Mommy and me classes. Every week he shows up in a different costume. Last week it was a flight suit. I love my life!

Officially Cubscouting!

2009-01-28T21:09:00.000-08:00

SO here are my boys in uniform as promised. I know, so adorable. Dan is doing a grrrreat job as leader. He is so perfect for this job and I love watching him with the boys. I know that it's really cool for Eric to have Dan in uniform with him. Lots of fun stuff and we are loving it.

First trip of the year...

2009-01-28T20:26:00.000-08:00

These are in no particular order in fact they are out of order. We went to visit friends who have a family farm in Corning (near Chico) and the boys had a blast. It was a great time filled with picking fresh apples, feeding horses, walking in the woods, finding 3 nests, and hanging out with good friends. We usually go in the summer but it turned out to be a nice January trip too.

I love Ben's faces sitting next to Peter- I think he'd had enough of Pete's wild antics.

A Scouting we go!

2009-01-22T18:36:00.000-08:00

Dan has been called to serve as Den leader for our newly chartered Pack 172 of which I am the newly called Den Master. Holy cow!! It is soooo much fun already. We only have 4 boys right now so we are meeting here at home on Wednesday nights at 6. It is a learning experience for both of us. Even though Dan was a Cub Scout, it's a different ball game now. Anyhow, that's the new news around here. We're going on our third week so I'll be posting pictures of the guys in their shirts and our activities as we go!!

Another recent event in the Brogger household is that Samuel and I started a Mommy and me class on Thursday afternoons called Rock, Roll and Read. It incorporates music and dancing with reading and he is loving it. He was so ready for something like this but with my schedule it has been really hard to find a program that fits. This semester I have early morning classes on Thursdays so I take the boys to my Dad from 7 to 10, pick them up to have Ben in Kindergarten at 10:30, volunteer in Ben's class until 12:15 and then Sam and I head over to his class which is on the same campus as big brothers.

Happy New year!!!

2009-01-08T08:43:00.000-08:00

Wow it's 2009!!! Hope everyone enjoyed their holidays. Like everyone else we have been enjoying time with family and friends and looking forward to a great new year. I have a feeling my blogging will be even more sporadic this semester. Life is crazy already! I love this time of year with all it's exciting changes.

I love this years Primary theme which is: My Eternal Family and I really love the song for January. It was one of my favorite Primary songs when I was a kid and I love that I get to learn the music in Spanish now! Anyhow here are the lyrics to "I Lived in Heaven" which is a lovely song and thought to start the new year.

LIVED IN HEAVEN
Words and Music by Janeen Jacobs Brady, b. 1934

I lived in heaven a long time ago, it is true;
Lived there and loved there with people I know. So did you.
Then Heavenly Father presented a beautiful plan,
All about earth and eternal salvation for man.

Father said he needed someone who had enough love
To give his life so we all could return there above.
There was another who sought for the honor divine.
Jesus said, "Father, send me, and the glory be thine".

Jesus was chosen, and as the Messiah he came,
Conquering evil and death through his glorious name,
Giving us hope of a wonderful life yet to be -
Home in that heaven where Father is waiting for me.

Foxy little smarty pants...

2008-12-23T19:48:00.001-08:00

So not only are the Brogger boys adorable and foxy, they are brilliant too!! Oh that's right I've already said that! Like a million times, I know.
Here they are receiving their awards for being amazing students. They each received Perfect Attendance and a Reading award. I went to the award ceremony for third grade but I missed Peter's! I was so sad! Peter's teacher wrote the wrong day on the invitation and he was so surprised that I wasn't in the audience to watch him. Poor little monkey! I went in to his class anyway so I could explain that I had every intention of being there. Anyhow, here are my brilliant little loves.

Cookies too!

2008-12-23T19:21:00.000-08:00

I forgot to mention the homemade cookies that were also in the package. We always get a big box with yummy cookies from Mom every Christmas, a yummy treat for us all! Here is Sam getting into the box.

On Saturday Eric Daniel and I went on our annual date of seeing The Nutcracker. We've been doing it for 4 years and we both really enjoy it.

A Hungry Howie Christmas

2008-12-23T19:00:00.000-08:00

Dan was born and raised in West Michigan and while there is no chance of snow falling around here, his sweet Mom managed to send some tangible Michigan love his way this Christmas.

At age 14 Dan started working at Hungry Howie's Pizza and it has remained close to his heart ever since. He LOVES this pizza, pepperoni and bacon with cajun crust to be specific, and tells everyone how much he craves it. He even went online to find one around here. The nearest one is in Hayward and while we still may drive over one day for a hot one, nothing beats one from home. Thanks Mom! You really made his Christmas!!

Nine years ago today....

2008-12-18T22:04:00.001-08:00

....Dan and I became husband and wifey. It really does feel like yesterday and I am so happy that we still have teenage-like crushes on each other! You know how the old adage goes, time flies when your having fun!

Life is full of ups and downs but they are all so much better when you have a best friend to enjoy it with.

Some reasons why Dan is amazing (too many to list them all, here is a short list)

*He is an amazing companion who always puts me first.
*He is the best Dad I could have ever hoped for for my children. Takes care of our babies just as much as I have except for the breast feeding of course.
*He scours the internet looking for yummy and nutritious meals to cook for our family, and has them hot and ready when I get home from night classes.
*He works and studies endlessly for the benefit of our family.
*He isn't ashamed to wear a PTA shirt to the gym!

All these years together and we still can't coordinate a picture together!

He loves me so and listens to me even when I ramble on and on about things that are of zero interest to him. Here is the proof: He bought me the 88 color palette that I desperately wanted! He knows my obsession with makeup of course but to be so specific really surprised me!!! Not only the 88 palette but also two gel pot liners! Such a sweetie!!!

I know he wasn't as thrilled at his gift but he is so difficult to shop for. Since I'm a skin care junkie, I picked what I would want if I was a man. I know, I'm no fun- Christmas will be better. He's so kind though, he says he likes it.

I love you Daniel!

Mrs. Brogger

The MOST AMAZING Little Engine that Could production EVER!

2008-12-17T12:13:00.000-08:00

Ben's kindergarten class performed The Little Engine That Could yesterday. Of course Ben had his fan club & entourage present for the big production! Daddy had to work. :(

It was sooo cute and the kids had such a great time with it. With Fine Arts at the bottom of the priority list in public schools, I am so grateful to Mrs. Salley for all of her hard work and giving the kids this experience. Ben loved it and had been anticipating this day for about 2 weeks.

When we decided that we wanted Ben to be in Mrs. Salley's class we knew that she would be a great teacher for him. She and my mom share a kindergarten class- my mom in the morning and Mrs. Salley in the afternoon. She's known his story since he was born and appreciates all his triumphs right along with us. She has never done this play before (she's been teaching kindergarten for more than 20 years.) Ben and his triumphant spirit were the inspiration to do this play. That's why, of course, he is the main character. It's very special for us that Mrs. Salley thinks so much of him! But I can understand why!!! I always smile when I think of the miracle that he is.

I was studying for finals all month but really wanted to help out as much as I could. Since I couldn't be in class a whole lot, I volunteered to help with the costumes. I made the soldier costumes and Ben actually helped me sew them. It took us about 2 1/2 "Lost" episodes to complete. (he,he,- I have to fit in "me" time somewhere) The hats went home with the kids but we kept the vests just in case we can use them for another production. I did a super quick face painting job with the girls but I think they are so cute they'd look cute anyway. Xochile's wonderful grandmother, who is always involved, helped out with that too. Mrs. Mason, Thomas's mom, helped out by bringing all the boxes and corrugated cardboard for the trains and backdrops and helped the children paint them. All in all, it was a great success! There were some nerves and a line or two was forgotten but for 5&6 year olds I thought the performances were Oscar ready.

Look out Hollywood!!!

Sleepy little stars.

The cutest train engineer I have ever seen! Such a beautiful child.

Ben and Grampy have the same smile!

We used our connections for exclusive backstage access to the star.

Even big brothers made it to the performance, Mrs. Salley invited their classes to be part of our audience, she's so sweet! It was pouring when biggest brother made his way over.

Silly Peter!I found a foxy man with gorgeous hair in the audience. I think I'll keep him. (His chin is like this because I left my razor in the shower and he thought he would shave- ouch! I learned my lesson.)

* This was not the video I meant to post- I wanted to post the video of the play but I guess I chose the wrong one. Here you see Stinky Sam harassing Bennie Pie. Ben likes to practice balancing- naturally it's very difficult for him but especially so when a stinker is around.

Reason for the Season Reminder

2008-12-12T09:32:00.000-08:00

Jesus is Better than Santa

Santa lives at the North Pole.

JESUS is everywhere.

Santa rides in a sleigh

JESUS rides on the wind and walks on the water.

Santa comes but once a year

JESUS is an ever present help.

Santa fills your stockings with goodies

JESUS supplies all your needs.

Santa comes down your chimney uninvited

JESUS stands at your door and knocks.. and then enters your heart.

You have to stand in line to see Santa

JESUS is as close as the mention of His name.

Santa lets you sit on his lap

JESUS lets you rest in His arms.

Santa doesn't know your name,

JESUS knew our name before we did.

Not only does He know our name, He knows our history and future

Santa has a belly like a bowl full of jelly

JESUS has a heart full of love.

All Santa can offer is HO HO HO

JESUS offers health, help and hope.

Santa says "You better not cry"

JESUS says "Cast all your cares on me for I care for you".

Santa's little helpers make toys

JESUS makes new life, mends wounded hearts and repairs broken homes.

Santa may make you chuckle but

JESUS gives you joy that is your strength.

While Santa puts gifts under your tree

JESUS became our gift and died on the tree.

It's obvious there is really no comparison.

We need to remember WHO Christmas is all about.

We need to put Christ back in Christmas.

Jesus is still the reason for the season.

Someone e-mailed this to me and I thought it was very appropriate considering my last post. It's so true!

Una Noche en Jerusalen

2008-12-06T19:18:00.000-08:00

Tonight our Primary had our Christmas activity. Instead of having the traditional Christmas party with Santa, we decided to celebrate with "Una Noche en Jerusalen", or A Night in Jerusalem. I have nothing against Santa of course (he's all over this house along with snowmen, reindeer & gingerbread men)but this year we wanted the kids to really remember the reason for the season: Christ the Savior's birth.

We had authentic food, learned a celebration dance, wrote our names in Hebrew (couldn't find one in Aramic) and finished off the night with the Nativity film. It was beautiful! We had a great time learning about the culture that surrounded the time of Christ's birth. We asked that everyone come dressed in clothing that reflected our activity and to make it easier for our families, we provided all the material and invited people to come and make their clothes this past Wednesday. I am no seamstress but I loved making the boys their clothes. As you can see, Dan opted not to dress up. He never does! Oh well, he's always there helping and participating. Anyhow, it was a great night! Roman Palacios painted our beautiful background. So many people contributed to making it a very special night. It was a nice way to keep our focus on Christ and get the kids excited about relating to it.

Movin' on up!

2008-12-04T19:13:00.000-08:00

Since our guys have been teeny tiny for so long we have had them all share a room. We have had tiny toddler beds all lined up in a row a la Madeline. Now that they are mature little men though we decided that it was time for a big boy bunk bed. It was delivered today and the boys had no idea it was coming. My mom picked them up from school and kept them until the bed was set up. They are sooooo happy! Sam thinks he's sleeping on top with Eric but I'm sure his mind will change closer to bed time. We're still going to keep them in one room since they prefer that anyway. I always tell them whoever misbehaves has to go sleep in the third room alone! They love to snuggle up like puppies.

Btw, do you love their Charlie Brown style Christmas tree? I know it's awful but they love having their own tree in their room. They aren't done decorating it yet and they actually think it's a competition between their tree and our tree. Kids!

Thanksgiving Day fun

2008-11-27T20:47:00.000-08:00

It's almost bedtime but I thought I'd blog now that I have the chance. Eric and Peter are spending the night with my aunt, Ben is sleeping over at my parent's house and Sammy is sleeping. Like everyone else we had a busy and fun day. Our afternoon consisted of playing soccer tennis at the park, coming home to play baseball and then going in to watch football and finishing it off with a King's game. Oh and yeah, we ate turkey!

My Dad always chooses a big turkey and this year was a record at 29 lbs. It was so yummy. Peter always wants a leg.

No one else let me take a picture of them, everyone was so wiggly that I eventually gave up until later on when I tried to get a good pic of the brothers. This did not go very well either. Four wiggly, sleepy brothers are a difficult subject. This is what it went like:

The good news is that Dan and I got a couple of pictures together which almost never happens, here we are in a lovey dovey moment- me and my handsome hubby.

Happy Thanksgiving!!!

2008-11-27T11:29:00.000-08:00

This morning I woke up at 6:45 to participate in Stockton Emergency Food Bank's 4th annual Walk & Run Against Hunger. I didn't bring my camera along but it was so much fun. I opted to participate in the 5K, maybe next year I'll go for the 10. Anyhow, I went with a group of friends and had such a great time we all decided it'll be a tradition.

Among many other things, I am thankful for community resources that are dedicated to helping those less fortunate. With a $35.00 registration fee and about 3,000 participants that is a good amount of money to help local families. This is a rough time for lots of families and it's important to help out where we can.

I wish everyone a wonderful Thanksgiving!

A Miracle!

2008-11-21T09:11:00.001-08:00

Image: Janice Kraser, Billy Kraser
Janice Kraser sits next to her 9-year-old son, Billy Kraser, at their Scranton, Pa., home Sunday, Nov. 9. Billy has spina bifida and has undergone an experimental surgery which reroutes his nerves in attempt to attain normal bladder and bowel function.

There is an amazing new surgery that possibly could change our lives with Ben. This is really new and I am still researching it but I was so overcome with emotion that I couldn't finish reading it out loud. Here is the some of the amazing article that fills my heart with hope:

WASHINGTON - It’s a delicate and daring experiment: Could doctors switch a leg nerve to make it operate the bladder instead?

Families of a few U.S. children whose spina bifida robs them of the bladder control that most people take for granted dared to try the procedure — and early results suggest the surgery indeed may help, in at least some patients.

With the technique, pioneered in China, the kids are supposed to scratch or pinch their thigh to signal the bladder to empty every few hours. But surprisingly, some youngsters instead are starting to feel those need-to-go sensations that their birth defect had always prevented.

For the entire article go here

Too funny!

2008-11-20T22:52:00.000-08:00

I was spending some time catching up with blogs I read and I came across this hilarious video posted by Dan's friend Jon. So worth watching...despite being a youtube junkie I had never seen this one. Watch the whole thing because the end is priceless. Thanks for sharing a laugh Jon!

Soy Adriana y soy una hija de Dios

2008-11-20T22:04:00.000-08:00

I have been terrible not to post anything lately but it has been insane around here again. We've had tons going on and deadlines every week so it's just been difficult to find time for blogging.

Anyhow, the big news from this Primary Pres is that our ward just had our Primary Sacrament Presentation this past Sunday. It went sooooooooooooo wonderfully! That Sunday is always my favorite of the year; the kids are so sweet and I love our sunbeams who either barely whisper or scream into the mic with spit flying everywhere. It was a great presentation and confirmation of how important it is to raise our little children up in righteousness and God's love. This year the Primary theme was "I am a Child of God." What an amazing truth to grow up with! During this season of thanksgiving I am so thankful to have that sentence be a testimony and light I can always count on.

All the kids did a great job but now I'll brag about my boys. Eric did a great job. Every year he has his assigned part memorized right after receiving it. This year his part was very long and included reciting the 4th Article of Faith. He had it written out just in case he forgot it. He didn't need it but I have to say that I am so pleased with how well he reads in Spanish! He is so natural and reads just as well in Spanish as he does in English. For an 8 year old kid I think it's brilliant. Peter did a great job too. He is always super eager as he bounds up towards the microphone and then pauses to make sure all eyes are on him and then in his booming (for a 6 year old) voice delivers his lines with such dramatic conviction. He always gets a couple of chuckles because he always has a "moment". And then there is my precious Ben, who loves to wear Mr.Roger-style cardigan sweaters and perfectly parts his hair to look like he says a "mush-a-na-wee" or missionary. This little boy invited his entire kindergarten class to come and watch the Primary Program and had practiced his lines over and over in front of the mirror. Of course he did a great job. I am always humbled by his sweet spirit and I know that our Heavenly Father appreciates his diligence and obedience. I feel so thankful to have such good examples to follow.

Halloween 2008

2008-11-04T07:14:00.001-08:00

This Halloween was fun because it was the first year that everyone was old enough to walk on their own and participate in Halloween fun like a big boy. Sam ran up and down the streets singing "It's just Halloween fun" over and over again. His costume was a conglomeration of a bunch of things he found in his toy box and threw togther. He actually had a really cute Woody costume that we bought in late September and had to hide from him so he would stop wearing it so much before Halloween. Well he didn't even want it and concocted his own look. I actually bought the tiny ninja costume at about the same time as Woody but not for Halloween. He is kind of obsessed with the 3 Ninjas trilogy. For those of you blessed to not know what that is, they are really cheesy kid movies about three little brothers who defeat bad guys because they have amazing ninja moves. Anyway, there is a line in the movie where 2 brothers teasing the older one chant "Rocky loves Emily, Rocky loves Emily." Emily lives next door and Rocky has a crush on her. Anyhow, Sam who lives and breathes this movie and performs his ninja skills for us all day, paid me the sweetest compliment when he said "Mommy ,you Emily, me Rocky, otay? That's how much he loves me! So, I bought him a ninja costume so that he can really feel like Rocky.

Anyhow, I digress from Halloween: Eric was the only one who wore what we originally planned. He was obviously Stitch from the Disney movie Lilo & Stitch. Ben wore Peter's costume which was Woody riding Bullseye from Toy Story. Ben was supposed to be Beast from Beauty and the Beast. And I was Belle from the same movie. Despite being excited to wear it, at the last minute he decided the costume was too heavy and itched him too much. I think I'll have throw it on ebay next year because it's too adorable not to wear. It's very similar to stitch, a big plush costume with the head on top.

The face painting pics are from last thursday, I did a live face painting tutorial using no Ben Nye or Kroyalan paints but just regular makeup for a podcast I do once in a while with a friend. I wasn't too happy with my whiskers and it could have been better but both faces were done within the 28 minute time frame of the podcast and with Sam on my lap. Sam was really cooperative for a live show and I thought his face was adorable.

Silly thoughts

2008-10-27T20:40:00.001-07:00

The pictures I posted as a Halloween slideshow are just random Halloween pics of the boys through the years. I will admit that I am a little nostalgic of the days when they were all teeny tiny. When Sam didn't have any hair and when Ben was a chubby little biscuit that sat still for 25+ minutes while I transformed him into the sweetest little lion I ever did see, when Eric thought I was the ultimate in "cool" (I've faded slightly there). Or when Peter spent his days in a costume regardless of the season. They still are pretty much babies and we have lots of fun but I just remember how much fun they were at about 18 months old and think how cool it would be to have them all that age if only for a moment. (I do realize that that would mean quadruplets and I know I'm not up for that- just a daydream I'm entertaining right now)

By the way, funny story of Sam today:

He brought me a half empty bottle of water and asked me to open it. Of course I thought nothing of it and figured he was thirsty so I opened it and walked away to do some laundry. When I walked back into the living room I noticed he was peeing into the bottle! I guess I shouldn't be such a "convenience oriented" mother and actually walk my kids to the nearest bathroom. With little boys though, an empty water bottle can come in handy sometimes!

Random Halloween Pictures

2008-10-27T20:38:00.000-07:00

Brothers w/ Grampy

2008-10-27T10:04:00.001-07:00

En español

2008-10-21T16:51:00.000-07:00

Bueno ya son muchas personas que me dicen que ya no van a leer el blog porque nunca escribo en español. La verdad es muy sencilla: como apenas puedo bloguear de vez un cuando en ingles, ya imagínate en español- cuando tengo que pensar. ; )

Pero bueno tienen razón, debería de, entonces aquí esta.

Como mas que nada son hermanas del Barrio les quiero dar las gracias por apoyar la actividad del viernes. Creo que fue todo un éxito!

Yo estaba tan ocupada con el juego que no pude sacar fotos esa noche pero si alguien me las quiere pasar los puedo poner aquí. Por cierto estamos pensando hacer un blog para el Barrio Delta- Stockton, ya que muchos barrios lo hacen y es una forma de mantener todos en contacto durante la semana. Ya veremos si hay mas interés porque con una o dos personas no seria tan fácil pero con mas si se va poder hacer.

Fall School Pictures, Starring My Foxes!

2008-10-12T17:10:00.000-07:00

Here are the boys' school pictures. I will be sending out pictures soon but thought I'd post them for all to see. Eric and Peter liked theirs but my lovely Ben was so distraught with his; he thinks he smiled too big. Poor little guy! I think it's a lovely picture of a guy who is excited to be in kindergarten.

I volunteered at school to help with pictures and to my grateful surprise I got 3 free packages valued at over $150.00. Cool deal, huh? Anyhow, the package included c.d.'s with these three different tones for each kid. Aren't they handsome little boys? I think so!

Sunday's Record

2008-09-23T08:35:00.000-07:00

This picture was in Sunday's Stockton Record. Peter was interviewed for a reading program with dogs that his school is involved in. It's called Paws to Read and the caption for the picture was "Paws-itive reinforcement."

I have no idea who the lady next to him is, she is a volunteer I've never met. If you want to read the article here's the link http://www.recordnet.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080921/A_NEWS/809210315&emailAFriend=1

I didn't really care for the article. It painted Peter BroggER (they mispelled his name) as a child lacking confidence who may have suffered some abuse and needs anger management. The real story is that the little girl who was originally intended for the article was absent and they needed someone quickly so they sent Peter. He is an excellent reader and has not a shy bone in his body. Anyhow, Peter looks adorable in the picture.

Totally random: Sid the Science Kid is on in the background while I type this. Is anyone else horrified by his creepy grandma? Her laugh is the scariest.

Disneyland for FREE!

2008-09-20T14:05:00.000-07:00

Did you know...

that in 2009 Disneyland will be offering free admission on the day of your birthday! Isn't that cool? I would love this news even more if I were closer to the park but I thought this was definitely pass along worthy news. Here's the link:

http://disneyparks.disney.go.com/disneyparks/en_US/WhatWillYouCelebrate/disneyland/index?name=CelebrationsDLRFreeOnYourBirthdayPage

More Pictures

2008-09-17T15:23:00.001-07:00

Fall Soccer

2008-09-17T15:23:00.000-07:00

Hi friends!

2008-09-04T08:37:00.000-07:00

Holy cow! It's been a really long time since last I blogged. Sorry, we've been crazy busy since school started. I keep thinking I'll get to the blogging but before I know it the day is gone and it's the last thing I want to do at night. So in 3 minutes or less, here is a quick update of our lives:

Dan & Adry: Both super exhausted but happy to be busy.

Eric: Third grader starting fall soccer this weekend into playing Zelda and reading Magic Tree House & Captain Unperpants series. He has his first Cub Scout meeting next week! Almost a man!

Peter: First grader starting fall soccer this weekend, into any computer game, laughs outloud when reading Junie B. Jones. Played the donkey in latest production of Brementown Musicians! Sweetest donkey I ever saw!

Ben: In Kindergarten, taking a break from soccer, loves to write! Example of Ben's mad writing skills: I see a L-F-N-T. (elephant) adorable, right? I love it.

Sam: Basically velcroed to my hip. Literally obsessed with Handy Manny & Super Why. Jabber jaw talks constantly but since he can't pronounce the "s" sound he replaces it with "h" sound. Super cute when you ask him to say his name, Sam Brogger. Sounds like Ham Burger!

There! We are all fine and dandy, just kind of busy but I will try to post something new at least every 2 weeks.

FREE RICE!

2008-07-17T11:43:00.000-07:00

Awesome site I just learned about: it's called freerice.com. It tests your vocabulary and donates rice. For every word you test yourself on, the site donates 20 grains of rice through the United Nations World Food Program. This is so fun and a great way to help fight hunger without leaving home! They even show you how many grains of rice you've donated in a rice bowl graphic next to the words.

I checked it out on Snopes.com and it's true; the advertisers at the bottom of each page are the ones who pay for the rice.

I just donated 620 grains of rice! The word that stumped me? Girder= beam, who knew? Not me! Anyhow it’s fun and if you get a break in your day, why not?

GOOOOOOAL!!!!!

2008-07-13T21:37:00.000-07:00

Yesterday Peter and Ben had their first soccer games of the season. They both looked positively adorable in their little uniforms. In fact, the entire teams of the 3-4 year olds were too cute. Every kid despite what team they were on, followed the ball every where it went. It was a mob that went back and forth throughout the game.

My camera is not working like it should be and it's time for a new one. Unfortunately, I don't have any pictures to post of my future MLS players this week. I will buy a new one before next week's games but in the mean time I am happy to report that each of the Brogger Boys scored a goal!

My brother Peter is coaching Peter's team and it's really special for him to have his soccer loving uncle as his coach. Needless to say these guys had quite a fan base with a total of 12 people coming out to watch them. We are ardent soccer fans so my family wouldn't miss the games for anything! Lots of fun!